Herbal Waters: What Are They & Easy Ayurvedic Herbal Water Recipes

Reaching for over the counter medicines yet again for common ailments? Although, we marvel at the strong immunity and better health of our elders, inculcating their healthy habits is a different matter. Our elders always relied on the healing properties of herbs and spices before popping numerous pills. The age of modern medicines has made us overlook certain benefits of Ayurveda and its impact on our health. The therapeutic benefits of herbal waters are well known and infusing water with Ayurvedic herbs help increase its healing properties. Lets look at some must try Ayurvedic herbal water recipes that can be easily made at home.

Herbal waters nourish, lubricate, cool our bodies, aid digestion and detoxify the system. However, remember to use clean drinking water to make these ayurvedic waters by boiling with herbs and spices to extract their properties. Additionally, consume them fresh as it helps in better toxin elimination. These herbal drinking water ingredients can be easily found in your kitchens. However, do check with your doctor if you suffer from any serious ailments and allergies before consumption.

Coriander (Dhaniya) Seed Water:

Coriander seeds are high in antioxidant properties and consuming coriander seed water helps in curing problems like water retention, stomach issues like gas and acidity. Also, coriander water has cooling properties that helps the body immensely during hot summer months.

To make coriander seed water, boil 1 tbsp coriander seeds in half a liter of water for about 10-15 minutes. 

Cumin (Jeera) Water:

Considered a magic potion for weight loss, consuming cumin water first thing in the morning helps in rectifying slow metabolism, curing constipation, correcting digestive issues and aids healthy digestion. Moreover, cumin seeds are a powerhouse of antioxidants and help in eliminating toxins from the body.

To make cumin water- boil 1.5 liters of clean drinking water with 1.5 tbsp of cumin seeds till it becomes pale yellow in color. Cool down and consume warm.

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Fenugreek (Methi) Water:

Found easily in every Indian kitchen, Methi dana has many medicinal properties that can cure several health problems. Water infused with fenugreek can help aid in weight loss, has anti-inflammatory properties, prevents bloating and aids in removal of water retention. Soak fenugreek seeds in boiled and cooled water overnight. The water is highly beneficial to diabetics as the amino acid compounds in fenugreek seeds promote insulin secretion. 

To make fenugreek water, soak 1 tbsp methi dana in little warm 500 ml water overnight. Drink it first thing in the morning.

Tulsi (Indian basil) Water:

Tulsi has a lot of significance in Indian households. Tulsi is also known for its medicinal properties and kada made with tulsi leaves, ginger and pepper is often consumed during seasonal changes. Besides, tulsi water when consumed regularly helps prevent from common cold, fever and coughs due to its  antibiotic, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Furthermore, tulsi water also acts as a diuretic and detoxifies kidneys. 

To make Tulsi water, boil a few Tulsi leaves in half a litre of water. Drink this through the day to prevent coughs and colds.

Pathimugam (Indian red wood) Water:

We have already covered Pathimugam water benefits, take a quick look here. Water boiled with pathimugam is slightly pinkish to red in color and is an excellent cure for kidney disorders, diabetes, skin related problems and more. 

To make Pathimugam water, boil few shavings of pathimugam (easily available in ayurvedic stores) for 5-6 minutes till water turns pink and strain. Consume it when warm, through the day to reap multiple health benefits. Make fresh water as and when required. However, do check with your doctor before consuming pathimugam water during pregnancy.

Dry Ginger Water:

Popularly known as ‘chukkuvellam’, in Kerala, dry ginger water is consumed for its digestive properties. According to Ayurveda, indigestion causes many problems and many drink this water post a heavy meal. In addition, consuming dry ginger water helps soothe coughs too.

To make chukkuvellam- boil 1 litre water with one inch piece of dry ginger, 2-3 cloves (optional) and a few black peppers. Cool down to room temperature and consume.

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